We love porridge with its fruit and sugary add-ons, and are holding our spoons at the ready to dig into this dish on National Porridge Day, celebrated on June 23! Rich, flavorful, and thankfully not the ‘breakfast of champions,’ porridge is healthy and wholesome. Made by boiling grain in milk, the result is a choice breakfast for people around the world. The mushy bowl may seem bland to some, but not to us!
Get a free case of Kabrita Goat Milk Porridge
Kabrita is donating a FREE case of its Organic Goat Milk Porridge ($51 value) to US parents between June 23-29, 2021 (or while supplies last) in celebration of the holiday.
History of National Porridge Day
The history of porridge is as rich as the dish itself. Before the invention of baking ovens, porridge was the most essential part of the British diet. Porridge, or gruel, has been indulged in cross-culturally for centuries. The origins of porridge can be traced to Northern Europe, where it was traditionally enjoyed savory. The word ‘porridge’ first appeared in the 16th century and is believed to be a spin-off of the word ‘pottage’ — a type of stew.
Porridge hasn’t always been the way it is today. Preparation ingredients varied from grass-borne grains to other crops. Quinoa grain has been used for making porridge for more than 3,000 years, whereas rice porridge was eaten in China since 2500 B.C. It goes back even further than this, with evidence discovered by researchers proving that the cooked mush was eaten in some form as far back as 12,000 years ago, at the beginning of the Neolithic Revolution.
Soon after, people started preparing thick pancakes on stone ovens or hot tiles, using porridge-like mixtures. Such flatbreads are mentioned throughout the Old Testament, but a similar innovation simultaneously occurred throughout the world. The popularity of porridge and its many variations led to the creation of corn cakes, cornbreads, corn puddings, etc.
In the past few years, there has been a renewed interest in porridge. Artisan cooks and high-profile chefs are experimenting with the bland ingredients of porridge to blend and create different flavors around the world.
National Porridge Day timeline
Oats are introduced to Scotland.
The story of Goldilocks, the bears, and the porridge is published by poet laureate Robert Southey.
Porridge portrays an image of poverty in a famous scene in Charles Dickens’ novel “Oliver Twist.”
Porridge is briefly promoted as a soup and remedy for treating the sick.
The Quaker Oats Company is founded in New Jersey with headquarters in Chicago.
National Porridge Day FAQs
Are oatmeal and porridge the same?
Yes, oatmeal and porridge are basically the same thing.
What is porridge made of?
Porridge is prepared by boiling oats in milk or water and simmering it until it forms a thick consistency. Fruits, syrup, and spices are added according to taste. Different grains can also be used instead of oats, such as quinoa, spelt, or buckwheat.
Does porridge make you fat?
Porridge is healthy and nutritious, but too much of anything can be harmful. If overeaten, it can turn from a healthy breakfast option to a high-in-sugar dish that can add to your waistline.
National Porridge Day Activities
Make a warm bowl of porridge
Obviously! Get your favorite porridge oats and other pantry staples, and stir up a hearty bowl of porridge. Eat it with a banana, fruits, or honey.
Try a new recipe
Porridge can be prepared and cooked in an unbelievable variety of ways. Around the world, there are different ways to enjoy this dish. Look up a different recipe and try it out!
Get a free case of Goat Milk Porridge
Kabrita is donating a FREE case of its Organic Goat Milk Porridge ($51 value) to US parents between June 23-29, 2021 (or while supplies last) in celebration of the holiday.
5 Facts About Porridge That Will Blow Your Mind
The wooden spoon has a name
The wooden spoon used to stir porridge is called a ‘spurtle.’
It means what?
The word ‘porriginous’ has nothing to do with porridge — it means ‘suffering from dandruff.’
Porridge is slang for prison
In the U.K., porridge is used as a slang term for a prison sentence, most likely referring to prison breakfast
Porridge for snails
Research shows that snails are more likely to procreate when fed porridge.
Marianne Faithfull is faithful to porridge
English singer and actress Marianne Faithfull once said, “The food that’s never let me down in life is porridge.”
Why We Love National Porridge Day
Porridge has a rich history
It amazes us at National Today how something as simple as porridge has such an interesting and extensive history! Variations of the dish have been celebrated around the world across cultures for centuries. Let’s bond over porridge!
Porridge is healthy
Porridge has many health benefits and should be a part of everyone’s diet. Incredibly nutritious and packed with antioxidants, porridge improves the heart and helps with maintaining weight.
Porridge is an excellent start to the day
Porridge’s looks are deceiving — it looks boring but the oats in it are complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly throughout the day.
National Porridge Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 23 | Monday |
| 2026 | June 23 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | June 23 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | June 23 | Friday |
| 2029 | June 23 | Saturday |
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